Porsche to Display Classic and Brand-New Sports Cars at L.A. Auto Show

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November 17, 2008

Porsche will celebrate 60-plus years of the brand at the L.A. Auto Show, displaying both the first vehicle ever to bear the Porsche name as well as the first mid-engine Porsche, affectionately known as "Porsche No. 1." Also on hand at Porsche's display at the L.A. Auto Show will be a Porsche 550 Spyder from comedian and Porsche-phile Jerry Seinfeld's private collection.

Continuing the mid-engine legacy are Porsche's next generation of sports cars, which benefit from new technology and styling. Joining the iconic rear-engine Porsche 911, the Cayman and Boxster mid-engine roadsters receive the firm's dual-clutch transmission (dubbed PDK) as well as gasoline direct engines for better emissions, power, and efficiency.

Prior to a suspension redesign in the '90s, rear-engine Porsche 911s were a bit notorious for a condition known as snap oversteer, wherein the back of the car would suddenly lose control. A smart redesign of the suspension geometry, in addition to active suspension electronics, quelled these tendencies. Still, a mid-engine layout such as that offered by the Cayman and Boxster is ideal for corner carving, and both of these vehicles offer a suitably thrilling driving experience.--Colin Mathews
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